San Marino GP: Ferrari Saturday qualifying notes

Schumacher is in the first row, Barrichello is fourth
Jean Todt:
"For the first time this season, we do not have a Ferrari on
pole position. Doubtless, it will not be the last, just as there will be
races where we will be back at the head of...

Schumacher is in the first row, Barrichello is fourth

Jean Todt:

"For the first time this season, we do not have a Ferrari on
pole position. Doubtless, it will not be the last, just as there will be
races where we will be back at the head of the field in qualifying. Michael
was on an amazing lap, but a small off-track excursion in the third sector
cost him first place and so he finds himself starting from 'only' second.
Rubens was also going well, but he was not impeccable in the final section
of the track and so maybe he could have been a bit higher up the order."

"However, 'ifs' and 'buts' count for nothing in the end! The car, the engine,
the Bridgestone tyres, Shell's fuel and lubricants: we have everything in
place to put up a good fight in tomorrow's race. Racing in front of our fans
and employees of the Ferrari Maserati Group who will be here with their
families will give us an additional boost to give it our best and do well."

Michael Schumacher:

"Once I saw that Jenson had done a good lap, I knew
that for me it was a case of all or nothing. So I tried very hard, but I
overdid it at the Variante Alta. I was actually lucky not to go off the
track and spin. But even without that moment, I do not think I would have
been quick enough for pole. I think it will be an interesting race tomorrow
and a tight battle, especially the run down to the first corner, given the
potential of the drivers at the front end of the grid. I was happy with my
car today, although I did not have much grip in pre-qualifying as, once
again I was the "road sweeper" being first out on track."

Rubens Barrichello:

"Together with the engineers, we improved my car a lot
compared to yesterday, when I was unhappy with the set-up. In qualifying I
was on a good lap, but it was not perfect in the final sector, which cost me
precious time and positions. However, I am still confident for the race. We
know we can count on a really good car and the Bridgestone tyres which we
can rely on to go well even over a long distance."

Ross Brawn:

"It was a very exciting qualifying session, probably the most
unpredictable so far this season. Obviously, we are a bit disappointed not
to be on pole in Imola, but we believe we have what we need to be
competitive tomorrow, given that we still have both cars on the front two
rows of the grid. Michael's final sector didn't quite come together and the
same went for Rubens, who also lost a bit in the final part of the track,
having managed, along with his engineers, to significantly improve his car
compared to yesterday's free practice."